Conceptualisation of any topic occurs every day in in the modern world. For example, everyday behaviours of why people use resources, how these needs and wants are established and what occurs as a result of these needs gives cause for researchers to analyse day-to-day practices in the hope to facilitate change. This is but one of millions of examples of conceptualisation which occur every day. The question is how well researchers in this particular scenario, or individuals themselves, understand the process of what is occurring or how and why they are actually doing it. This paper will define the characteristics of conceptualisation in the context of a conceptual paper and explain the differences between this specific format and that of a research article. Furthermore, it will provide definitions of conceptual and theoretical frameworks and the distinct features of each, particularly those which vary substantially. Lastly, an evaluation of a specific conceptual paper will identify and discuss key strengths and weaknesses to help broaden my understanding of this topic as a whole.

Conceptual paper

Deleuze and Guattari (1991) defined the term concept as an idea or notion that has various elements which helps to define them. These elements are diverse and distinctive, yet formidable and inseparable.  Jabareen’s 2009 study of phenomena frameworks extends on this definition, stating that ‘every concept has a history that originates from other concepts and relates back to others’ (p51). With this in mind when constructing a conceptual paper the expertise lies in the writer’s ability to identify the various characteristics and components of a topic and find associations that may help broaden their scope of thinking (Robey & Baskerville, 2012; Salomone, 1993).  This does not necessitate a fact finding mission, for a conceptual paper does not solely rely on facts and is often devoid of data (Cropanzano, 2009). Gilson and Goldberg (2015) explain how the focus for any conceptual paper is on the integration of information, linking existing theories that work across various disciplines. It represents the author’s focus of thought about a specific topic or question, what they already know about it and more so why they are even contemplating researching it. Furthermore, it provides an overview of the areas that have yet to be examined or tested and identifies any problem areas from a research perspective. There is little emphasis on empirical studies to help articulate a conceptual paper (Short, 2009). Rather, a focus point is raised and expanded upon by coincidences, debated opinions and existing theories, giving opportunities to provide explanations, create new ideas and develop further questions. Conceptual papers may not follow any particular structure, however they do form the starting point for many ideas, models, theories and frameworks.

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Research article

A conceptual paper varies considerably when discussing the characteristics of a research article. Unlike the conceptual paper which draws on the author’s own thought processes to determine the what, how and why a particular topic should be researched, a research article contains a comprehensive investigation of an original research study. It is regarded as a primary source as it is based on original research undertaken by the author.  Research articles briefly discuss previous peer-reviewed empirical studies to demonstrate how they will contribute to and potentially enhance the body of knowledge concerning the topic. The methodology behind the research and the way in which it is conducted also forms part of the paper to ensure validity and reliability. Another feature that differs from that of a conceptual paper is the data presentation of the study and interpretation of these results, methodically linking findings to those from prior studies. An assessment of these findings in the larger context of existing knowledge is also discussed together with any speculative associations. Research articles also follow a particular structure which addresses a certain objective. The paper needs to state what problem the writer intended to address, what they did to answer the problem, what they observed in the results and what they think those results mean (Perneger & Hudelson, 2004). These factors all contribute to generating measurable and testable data, using established research methods that will test hypotheses and enable readers to make valid assumptions about the specific topic.  This contrasts with conceptual papers which tend to expand the broader conversation, developing more ideas and questions, without necessarily linking relevant theory.